HeliBars Horizon AT Handlebars for BMW R 1200 GS LC Review

HeliBars Horizon AT Handlebars are multi-axis adjustable to customize the riding position of the BMW R 1200 GS LC.
HeliBars Horizon AT Handlebars are multi-axis adjustable to customize the riding position of the BMW R 1200 GS LC.

BMW’s 2014 and later liquid-cooled R 1200 GS and GS Adventure motorcycles have earned universal praise for just about every aspect of their design, with the exception of the stock handlebar. Most owners are satisfied with its height and bend on-road, but some have complained that the grips are too far forward for comfort, especially in conjunction with the low seat option. Others wish for more control adjustability or height when the bar is rotated in the clamps and raised for riding off-road, and still others would just like the grips much higher. Small changes can be made with simple risers, but if you need the GS bar a good 2-4 inches taller or 2-4 inches farther back—or a combination of both—the new Horizon AT multiaxis adjustable handlebars from HeliBars will be a godsend.

HeliBars Horizon AT Handlebars can be adjusted 2-4 inches back, 2-4 inches higher and for wrist angle.
HeliBars Horizon AT Handlebars can be adjusted 2-4 inches back, 2-4 inches higher and for wrist angle.

Three joints on each side of the Horizon ATs allow you to adjust them up and down from 2-4 inches taller than stock, forward and backward 2-4 inches and inward and outward, with the wrist height and reach independently adjustable. Changes can be made quickly by loosening a few cap screws or the bike’s Torx fasteners, and brake and clutch lever angles can be adjusted in a couple minutes. The possible combinations are only limited by the bar hitting the tank or fairing at full lock, and at 30 inches the Horizons are narrower, so that the bars can be fully turned left or right to the steering stops, depending upon how you have them adjusted. The Horizon ATs were installed on our R 1200 GS by our local shop, who reported that it was straightforward. No modifications are required for installation—all of the original lines and hydraulics remain unchanged and the bike’s damper weights and hand guards are retained. The hand control locating holes are the same as stock, though, unlike the stock bar, the Horizon’s grip portion can be rotated to adjust the position of the brake and clutch levers.

HeliBars Horizon AT Handlebars
HeliBars Horizon AT Handlebars

Riding the GS with the Horizon AT bars felt similar to stock—no increased vibration, and steering and hand controls all felt the same—except that we could position the grips wherever we wanted them. Hallelujah! Most riders will probably just opt for the minimum amount of reduced reach and increased height, which is about 2 inches in both directions (and it’s important to note that is the minimum change—the Horizon ATs can’t be adjusted into the stock position). Others will find a bigger change more to their liking. Either way, if the bars fit you better you should enjoy increased leverage and better handling along with much more comfort.

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HeliBars are handcrafted in the USA and come with a 30-day, 100-percent satisfaction guarantee. The Horizon AT bars for the liquid-cooled R 1200 GS and GS Adventure retail for $595.

For more information:
Call (800) 289-1047 or visit helibars.com

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